Evaluation of Azolla pinnata as a Feed Supplement on Growth, Survival and Economic Effect on Labeo catla

Quality aquaculture feeds significantly impact the development and health of fish in confinement systems. The present study analyses the effects of applying Azolla pinnata meal at distinct levels into the diet of Labeo catla on water quality, growth performance, feed utilisation, survival rate, and body composition. Four treatment groups were maintained in this experimental trial: a control group (T0) with 0% Azolla meal, and three experimental groups with 10% (T1), 20% (T2), and 30% (T3) Azolla meal implication. The experiment was conducted for 90 days using fingerlings with an initial weight of 7±0.5 g. Research reports that the feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly improved with Azolla inclusion, with the lowest FCR observed in T3 (1.22±0.14) compared to the control (1.84±0.05) (p<0.05). The survival rate and growth performance, including weight and length gains, were significantly enhanced in the T3 group. The highest weight gain (115.23±0.23 g) and length gain (12.40±0.06 cm) were recorded in fish fed the 30% Azolla diet. Principal These findings suggest that dietary inclusion of 30% Azolla meal can significantly enhance the growth, health, and feed efficiency of Labeo catla, offering a cost-effective and sustainable feed alternative in aquaculture.